4. Xabi Alonso (Real Madrid)
A move that would have been hugely popular with the Anfield crowd, Xabi Alonso was linked with a return to Liverpool from Real Madrid this summer. The Spaniard was a fine performer for the Reds in his first spell at the club and they have arguably failed to replace him ever since. Alonso’s composure on the ball and tremendous vision make him a great deep-lying playmaker, and he would certainly be an upgrade on the failed signing of Joe Allen.
However, the 31-year-old ended up committing his future to Real, and is now out for around three months with a broken metatarsal. Depending on how he recovers this season, he could be available again in a year’s time if the Spanish giants choose not to renew his contract at the Bernabeu.